What haze does to your airways, and how to ease irritation

Hazy conditions can lead to irritation of the nose, throat and airways, causing sneezing, congestion and other breathing discomforts. The bigger concern with haze is the entry of fine particles into the nose, throat and lungs. These microscopic pollutants can irritate airways, trigger existing respiratory issues, and leave the nose feeling dry, blocked or inflamed. Understanding the effects of these particles and employing simple measures like saline care can help manage haze season more comfortably.

When you inhale haze, your nose acts as the body’s first air filter. It warms, humidifies and cleans incoming air using mucus and tiny hair-like structures called cilia. However, haze contains fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5 particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres, which can penetrate deep into the respiratory system.

In the nose, larger soot and ash particles can irritate the nasal lining, causing dryness, swelling, congestion, a burning sensation or a runny nose. In the lungs, PM2.5 particles reach smaller airways and air sacs, leading to coughing, chest tightness and airway irritation. Beyond the lungs, ultrafine particles may enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation elsewhere in the body.

Certain groups are more vulnerable to these effects. People with asthma or COPD may experience airway inflammation and flare-ups when exposed to fine particles. Those with allergic rhinitis or sinus problems might notice their sensitive nasal passages reacting more intensely. Young children, whose lungs are still developing, and older adults, with reduced lung capacity and existing heart or lung conditions, are also at higher risk. Outdoor workers face greater exposure due to longer periods of working outdoors.

To alleviate nasal discomfort, isotonic saline sprays or rinses are recommended. Isotonic saline, with a salt concentration similar to the body’s cells, helps wash away trapped particles and mucus while adding moisture to irritated nasal tissue. It is gentle enough for regular use, but it does not prevent PM2.5 from reaching the lungs.

Its primary role is to soothe the upper airways, clear accumulated particles and ease nasal congestion. To use an isotonic nasal spray, first blow your nose to remove excess mucus. Stand upright or slightly forward, keeping your head neutral. Insert the nozzle slightly outward, away from the septum, and spray gently while breathing in softly.

Gently tilt your head sideways to perform a nasal rinse or bottle wash using sterile, distilled or boiled and cooled water mixed with the recommended saline solution. Tilt your head sideways at about 45 degrees, breathe through your mouth, and let the solution pass through the nasal cavity, exiting through the lower nostril. Gently clear any remaining liquid and repeat on the opposite side.

Maintaining good hygiene by not sharing equipment, cleaning nozzles after each use and allowing refillable devices to air-dry is crucial to prevent bacterial buildup. If you experience persistent symptoms such as fever, severe facial pain, recurrent nosebleeds, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness or worsening symptoms despite home care, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

A doctor may examine your lungs, check your oxygen levels and nasal passages, and prescribe treatment if necessary. Managing haze exposure involves reducing inhalation, soothing irritated airways and recognizing when symptoms require medical intervention.